Every once in a while something comes along that changes how we do things. The mouse is a good example and I suspect so is the OCZ Neural Impulse Actuator or NIA for short. The folks over at Overclock3d got one sent to them to review.
From the article:
Capable of reading neuronal discharges in the brain, muscular signals and retinal movements, OCZ have marketed the device at gamers, claiming that the device can be used as a kind of brain-powered-joystick to compliment, and possibly even replace, the traditional keyboard or mouse during gaming.
They claim that it takes time to calibrate the thing to your brain waves… and learning to use it is a bit like learning to type without looking at the keyboard, it can take some time. So you’re not going to sit down and immediately wtfpwn all those outdated mouse users.
However, they played pong with their brain and that’s got to count for something.
Good to know that if I ever become paralyzed from the waist down, that there still might be a way to earn a paycheck. And frag some bitches too, of course. Also important.
It looks like the site is down, but if they are able to play pong with it, then I’d say that’s a pretty amazing feat with first generation technology. And it’ll only get better. Very exciting new technology.
They got picked up by engadget, I suspect it’s /. effect.
I totally approve of this Evil Brain Power harnessing device.
I know they’ve been working on stuff like this for a pretty long time, it’s exciting to see it in its first “commercial”y application rather than solely an adaptive device!
I got a chance to see some some of the rudimentary stuff in the 90s via the Spinal Cord Injury Association and their partnerships with some labs in the Twin Cities Area. It was very slow then, better than nothing I suppose. It’s exciting to see something that is fast enough to play a game with! And if it’s a commercial success that means the cost will come down for the adaptive community as well.
All good!